In addition to being a part of university-wide expansions, the project is the centerpiece of the $86 million renovation of Nippert Stadium itself, which includes adding more restrooms and concessions, and better pedestrian circulation.

While the West Pavilion looks very modern in appearance, a great deal of historical consideration was involved in the design of the project: “Construction began on the Bearcats’ original football stadium—the fifth oldest in America—in 1915, so preserving the historic and intimate nature of the space became one of [ARO’s] leading motivations.” In particular, “great care was taken to make sure the views into the field from Main Street were still present.”

The West Pavilion itself, distinctively framed by X-braced steel and sheathed in glass, will contain club lounges, a designated press area, catering and kitchen facilities, a lower-level loading dock, a rooftop terrace, and larger interior gathering spaces, all of which can be used not only for sporting events, but also for year-round academic events.

With the expansion of the West Pavilion, the standing room capacity of the stadium will increase from 35,000 to about 40,000. The project will be completed by September of 2015, just in time to host the Bearcats’ first game on September 5.